 "Air India Express plans to eliminate business class seats by 2025 amidst a major fleet expansion and operational restructuring.")
Air India Express is planning to phase out business class seats from its aircraft by 2025. This decision comes as the airline, part of the Tata Group, prepares to merge AIX Connect with itself next month. Currently, Air India Express operates a fleet of 85 aircraft, which is expected to grow to around 100 by the end of the year. While the airline has a mix of A320 and Boeing 737 planes, the business class seats are deemed unnecessary for its operational model. The airline, which conducts over 380 daily flights, is also adapting to the challenges of the global aviation industry, including supply chain issues and rising air traffic demand following the pandemic. The merger of AIX Connect is scheduled for October 1, with further integrations planned for the future.
Air India Express, a key player in the Tata Group’s aviation portfolio, is making significant changes as it moves closer to merging with AIX Connect next month. One major announcement from the airline is that it plans to phase out business class seats starting in 2025. A senior official from the airline explained that this shift aligns better with the company’s operational model.
Currently, Air India Express operates a fleet of 85 aircraft, which includes both A320 family planes and Boeing 737s. By the end of the year, that number is expected to grow to around 100. Among its newer additions, the airline has 34 Boeing 737-8 aircraft, of which 29 are equipped with business class seating.
In addition to these changes, the airline’s official noted that the business class seats will be removed during a reconfiguration process next year, as they do not fit into the budget-friendly ethos of Air India Express. At present, the airline serves both economy and business class travelers, but the upcoming changes signify a shift towards a more streamlined operation.
Air India Express, which operates over 380 daily flights and connects 32 domestic and 14 international destinations, is navigating challenges in the global aviation sector, including supply chain issues that have been exacerbated by the recent pandemic. The Tata Group has ambitious plans, recently ordering 470 new aircraft, with many new additions aimed at enhancing services across its four airlines, including Air India, Vistara, Air India Express, and AIX Connect.
As the airline industry continues to adapt to rising air traffic demands, these updates from Air India Express highlight a pivotal moment in its evolution, combining efficiency with growth.
Tags: Air India Express, merger, AIX Connect, business class, aviation news, Tata Group, aircraft fleet, airline industry, air travel, economy class.
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Why is AI Express phasing out business class seats?
AI Express is focusing on making flying more affordable and convenient for everyone. By removing business class, we can use the space for more economy seats. -
When will the business class seats be removed?
The business class seats will be phased out by 2025, as part of our improvement plan to better serve our customers. -
What is the plan for having 100 planes by December?
AI Express aims to expand our fleet to 100 planes by December to offer more flights and cover more routes, making travel easier for our passengers. -
Will passengers receive any benefits with the new changes?
Yes, with more economy seats, passengers can expect lower fares and better availability when booking flights. - How does this change affect existing business class passengers?
Existing business class passengers will be transitioned to economy class, but we are committed to providing excellent service to all our customers during this shift.
